Glucosamine and Omega 3

[Jaxqueline]

I take glucosamine and Omega 3 which are both recommended for Lupus patients. Does anybody know if it is necessary to take both or whether they duplicate in any way?

Thanks

[Hidden]

I was surprised to see that you had been recommended to take glucosamine - because I believed that there was no firm evidence that it was effective in relieving joint pain and inflammation. I used to take high strength glucosamine and chondroitin for joint pain on a daily basis and it didn't stop me developing lupus 8 years ago. However, after seeing your question - I wondered if there was some new knowledge that I was unfamiliar with - so I did some Googling.

I'm really sorry - but most of what I have found confirms my belief that there is no firm evidence that glucosamine is useful for lupus.

I think there is more evidence that Fish oils (omega 3) or evening primrose MIGHT be useful (but I would not suggest that this is enough on its own to control your symptoms).

BUT - and it is a big but, the drugs we have to take to treat our lupus are strong stuff, and I would never advise that you take a supplement without speaking with your GP first. Mostly a supplement will be fine, but occasionally there will be in interaction (even if it is only one that renders your drugs less effective, as is the case between St John's Wort and Prednisolone), and lupus is not a beast you want to experiment on - she can turn nasty very quickly if riled!

Sorry - this is not the answer that you wanted. The most positive things I can say are that Fish Oil won't hurt you, and MAY have a beneficial effect, while Glucosamine is probably a waste of money.

[hazelHollingsworth]

I agree with Maggie, Never take any without consulting with your Lupie consultant or a doctor who KNOWS about Lupus. Good luck.

[Sher78]

Agree with the above. Used 2 take them years ago 2 help with joint pain & did seem 2 help (think this was more coincidental than anything else as my lupus seemed 2 have a little kip around about that time) but after a while, u're body gets used 2 it (as bodies do) & u're tolerance builds up making it a waste of time & money in my opinion & also 2 echo maddie, always check, double check & triple check 4 possible drug interactions. For example, if u take warfarin, u gotta b careful with any food/drink containing vit K, cranberries, grapefruit, St. Johns Wort, anything containing Aspirin etc, it really is a minefield & again 2 echo maddie, u don't mess around when it comes 2 lupus, especially if u haven't learnt how 2 read u're body & the way it reacts :0/

[Sher78]

Maggie! Why am I calling u Maddie?! Apologies!!!!!!

[Tigerlily4]

Glucosamine supplements can pose an extremely serious threat to the health of some individuals because it has the ability to significantly raise cholesterol levels, eventually leading to heart disease - in particular strokes and heart attacks. Those with lupus who have Hughes/APL syndrome should definitely give it a wide berth, although I don't believe it's a safe supplement for anyone unless, perhaps, they're vegan and showing abnormally low levels in blood work. A normal balanced diet will provide enough essential cholesterol for our bodies. Beware of so-called "health supplements" because some can and will do more harm than good!